Newspaper Article 2013 – ‘A true Hawke’s Bay boy’

‘A true Hawke’s Bay boy’

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weekend last year that Mr O’Grady remembered most.

“Without hesitation, he said he would be absolutely delighted to speak.

“Then his health deteriorated in the lead-up to the event. I rang and said, ‘We totally understand if you can’t make it.’ He said, ‘No, I’ll be there.’

“He was very uplifting, speaking about Hastings, New Zealand and Karamu, but I could see it was a big effort. I will always be appreciative of the fact that he did that at the expense of his own comfort.”

The school flag was lowered to half mast yesterday morning and will remain there in remembrance of Sir Paul until after his funeral, the plans for which were yet to be announced.

An interest in aviation led to another Hawke’s Bay connection, this time at the Bridge Pa Aerodrome, though Sir Paul’s relationship with the club was cut short after he crashed his vintage Boeing Stearman in 2004.

Air Hawke’s Bay chief executive Kevin England said: “I recall his days as a pilot came to an end when he had a crash landing and his aircraft was written off.

“We will remember him as a colourful aviator and character.”

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule offered his condolences to the family and friends of “a true Hawke’s Bay boy”.

“Even though his working life took him away from here, he didn’t forget those days growing up. He found time in his busy schedule to support events for local community groups and charities, and was a tireless promoter of the benefits of living and working in the region.

“I know he loved the lifestyle that he fashioned at his home in Poukawa, and there were times when he told me that he couldn’t wait to spend time in the tranquillity of Mana Lodge.”

The influence Sir Paul had on Hawke’s Bay should not be underestimated, Mr Yule added.

“He took every opportunity to promote business opportunities, and his venture into the olive oil industry has proven to be a further boost for the region.”

It was not just his zest for the region but for life which captured people’s hearts and imaginations.

“He was always a delight to be around.

“His wit and honesty were there for all to see, and he had enormous influence in many walks of life and could get things done,” Mr Yule said.

“I will miss Sir Paul as will everyone who came into contact with him. He will be remembered as one of Hawke’s Bay’s finest ambassadors.”

Broadcasting Minister Craig Foss mourned a remarkable man and an acclaimed figure in New Zealand broadcasting.

“He will be sorely missed by his media colleagues as well as viewers and listeners around the country.

“For many decades, he changed the face of broadcasting and will be remembered for his passionate, skilled and insightful interviews telling the stories of New Zealand,” he said.

Photo caption – IN MEMORY: Karamu High School principal Martin O’Grady (second from left) and a group of students look on as Reuben Cash lowers the school flag to half mast out of respect for Karamu old boy and veteran broadcaster Sir Paul Holmes, who passed away early yesterday morning.   PHOTO/PAUL TAYLOR HBT130567-03